Matthew 6:25-34
Our problem is that we want to test God rather than trust him. We want to experiment with him rather than rely on him. we're like the boy who tests the doubtful ice instead of skating confidently where God is leading. What is our faith worth if we don't trust completely? It is perfectly natural to trust in our own understanding, to rely on our own natural strengths, gifts, or talents (and indeed some modern prophets tell us to do so!). But it is the walk of faith to trust his teaching and direction. Give him first place and let him have precedence. This is the secret of safe guidance and peaceful progression. Simple dependence upon him, committing our all to him, obeying him implicitly---this is how to acknowledge him "in all ways."
by Al Bryant
Applying it: Describe the kind of life that truly honors god. In what ways do you trust and seek God on a daily basis?
FRIENDS:
Father, Thank you for taking us back time and time again when we stray away and think we can do it on our own. When we return, you forgive because you are so kind and you show us so much mercy. Thank you for your great love. In Jesus' name, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE CHALLENGE
MAY 14
Mark 13:32-37; 2 Cor 12:1-10; Psalms 107; 2 Samuel 1-2
MAY 15
Mark 14:1-11; 2 Cor 12: 11-21; Psalms 108; 2 Samuel 3-4
~2 Samuel~
King David
In the first ten chapters of Second Samuel he can do no wrong. His is never defeated in battle. Never wrong in judgment. He begins his reign in prayer (2:1) and continues in faith. Enemies are subdued, the nation is unified, the capitol secured, and the boundary extends from six thousand to sixty thousand square miles.
But that is the first ten chapters.
Chapter eleven is a hinge on which hangs the cellar door. David opens it and down he falls. By the time he lands on the cellar floor he is bruised, confused, and staring into the darkness.
You know what happened. On a lazy afternoon his wandering eyes found a forbidden maiden. Testosterone surged and evil urged so he summoned her, slept with her and then sent her home.
A rendezvous. So fast. So impulsive. So passionate. So pregnant.
Rather that repent, he connives and lies and leaves a soldier dead and a widow weeping and all of wondering: Is this the same David? Is this the shepherd? Is this the boy of faith? The many of prayer? Is this the man after God's own heart?
With time, confession comes and forgiveness is given, but the scars remain. Nathan's prophecy proves true: the sword never departed from David's house (12:10). Bloodshed stained his home from then on.
Some of the final words written about David are some of the saddest, "King David was very old, and although his servants covered him with blankets, he could not keep warm" (1 Kings 1:1)
Mark it down. Compromise chills the soul.
If only David hadn't opened that cellar door.
FOOD:
(these are sooooo good)
Banana Won Tons
2 Chiquita bananas, mashed
1 pkg. wonton skins
1/3 c. firmly packed coconut flakes
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 c. raisins
Oil for frying
In electric skillet or wok, heat oil to 350 degrees F.
Combine bananas, coconut, cinnamon, and raisins.
Moisten edges of won ton skins with water. Add 1 teaspoon of mixture to center of skins, fold to form a triangle and pinch edges together to seal in mixture.
Fry on both sides until golden brown.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar and/or cinnamon. Serve warm.
FUN:
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